Dunlin

(Calidris alpina)

Where: Virginia Beach, VA • False Cape State Park

Notes: When it comes to bird photography, I am not always a big fan of the amber glow associated with early morning light; but in this photograph, I really like it. The warmth and blue-purple reflections give distinctive contrast, without over powering the subject. Often the emerging light will provide such a strong discoloration, it changes the bird's normal appearance to the point that it barely resembles the same species at all. However, sunrise light does provide a softer ambiance, that typically does not produce harsh contrasts or deep, dark shadows, like the high noon sunshine will. With a low angle of entry into the beach, the dawn glow illuminates the entire under-belly of this little sandpiper. This bird almost went unnoticed, as I stood watching out over the surf, hoping that one of the Northern Gannets just off shore would stray in far enough for picture. This Dunlin was working its way in my direction, when I noticed it out of the corner of my eye. It was only about twenty feet away. So I lowered slowly to my knees and got ready to try and get a shot. The waves helped by pushing the Dunlin right towards me, as it turned and ran from an incoming wave. Then, I clicked off a few shots and was Blessed to find this image to share.